Safety Precautions Checklist before Getting a Tattoo
Consider getting a tattoo the same as having a minor operation. In many aspects, they are the same. Tattooing is the process of aesthetically drawing a scar on your skin. Needles are used to prick the top layer of the skin and apply ink. Accredited tattoo artists in Brisbane follow certain safety precautions to ensure the wellbeing of their clients and the success of the tattoo.
Here are the most common precautions observed when tattooing. More care and stricter measures might be needed for bigger designs, sensitive-placed tattoos, and for other factors.
Preparations for the Tattoo Date
Ø Find an accredited tattoo shop. Look around. Ask to see their equipment. You should not see anything dirty or suspiciously nasty. Everything – the shop, the waiting area, the tattooing station, the inks, needles, and equipment, should be clean, well-arranged, and in the right places.
Ø Ask for the artist’s license. In many studios, copies of permits and licenses are prominently displayed. If you can’t see one, feel free to ask.
Ø Discuss the tattooing process with the artist. Experienced tattoo artists in Brisbane discuss the actual procedure with their clients. To set expectation and to prepare the client. Topics usually include duration of the session, pain level, aftercare procedures, and if another session is needed to complete the design.
Ø Review the tattoo. Make sure you love the design. Ask for a printed copy and bring it home. Make it your screensaver, hang it on your wall and bathroom mirror. Look at it as much as you can. Review the details and the spelling. Leave no room for error and regrets.
Ø Set a date for the tattoo session. Have it on the weekend, or any day when you can have the next couple of days to rest.
Ø Prepare for the day. Choose comfortable clothes to wear. If the ink is going to be on your leg, opt to wear shorts with elastic waistband. It is also advised for you to bring a friend along especially for large inks, someone who will drive you home.
On the Tattoo Date
Ø Do not drink alcohol at least a day before the tattoo session. Alcohol thins the blood. You don’t want thin blood if you’re going to be bleeding.
Ø Wear comfortable clothes.
Ø Arrive early. You would want to catch your breath before going under the needle. Also, it would be enlightening to watch another client getting inked.
Ø Check sanitary procedures. Make sure the needles, containers, and tubes to be used are new, the artist should wash his or her hands and wear new disposable gloves. Other equipment should be properly sterilised and disinfected. Everything should be spanking clean.
Ø Check the ink. Is it approved for tattooing? Check the expiry date. Out of date inks can lead to complications and infection.
Ø Test for allergy reactions. Perfectly fine tattoo inks can still cause severe rashes and allergic reactions to hyper-sensitive skins. Ask for a quick allergy reaction test before undergoing with the tattoo procedure.
Tattoo Aftercare
Ø Keep the bandage on for 24 hours. The raw wound is still susceptible to air-borne bacteria and possible infection.
Ø Clean the wound with lukewarm water and liquid antibacterial soap. Do not rub the area. To dry, gently pat with clean paper towel or towel.
Ø Generously apply antibiotic ointment with Vitamin A and D. This will speed up the healing process and keep away infections.
Ø Avoid soaking and tub baths for a least two weeks. Quick showers are advised to help keep the wound clean. Also make sure that regular bath soap, shampoo, and conditioners you’re using do not get on the wound.
Ø Stay away from too much sun exposure. Avoid beaches for now. Saunas, steam rooms, and swimming in pools, rivers, and sea are strongly discouraged until the tattoo is completely healed.
Ø Wear loose and comfortable clothes. As much as possible, let the tattooed area uncovered. Also avoid fitting garments that might rub against the tattooed skin.
Ø It will itch. It’s a sign that it’s healing just fine. But do not scratch. Instead, most Brisbane tattoo artists recommend using mild moisturiser to keep the skin healthy. In case of scabbing, use the warm moist compresses to soften the scab. Do not scratch or peel off.